Seahawks QB Russell Wilson has been hot and cold this season, but he's finding his stride.

Seattle clinging to top spot; Chiefs still No. 2

1. Seahawks (8-1): That makes two weeks in a row mighty Seattle almost fell to inferior opponents. That also makes two weeks in a row they dug deep and somehow pulled out the win. If they have another poor showing against Atlanta, a team that appears to have given up, then we'll start worrying. For now, championship.

2. Chiefs (9-0): It's a simple formula for Kansas City: let Alex Smith manage the game, run Jamaal Charles into the ground, wreak havoc on defense and watch the wins pile up. They get a bye this week, with fateful date with Broncos up next. Andy Reid is 13-1 following the rest week.

3. Colts (6-2): Ten game-winning drives in fourth quarter/overtime for Captain Comeback, aka Andrew Luck. If T.Y. Hilton can grow into the Reggie Wayne role, this team can compete with and beat anybody.

4. Broncos (7-1): Denver is an offensive juggernaut, we know this. But we still want to see them win a knockdown, drag-out defensive struggle. Interim coach Jack Del Rio has his work cut out for him. On a serious note, best wishes to John Fox.

5. 49ers (6-2): Pass-rush specialist Aldon Smith is eligible to play. Eric Wright and Michael Crabtree are close to returning. The Niners are starting to look like the Super Bowl contenders we thought they were — and flying under the radar.

6. Patriots (7-2): Coincidence that Tom Brady threw for a season-high 432 yards and four touchdowns with what looks like a 100-percent Rob Gronkowski back in the lineup? We think not.

7. Saints (6-2): Drew Brees made a couple of big mistakes and Rob Ryan just can't seem to beat his twin brother. We'll chalk it up as an off-day for a strong Saints team.

8. Bengals (6-3): The story of the season. Unstoppable with Good Andy; can't get out of their own way with Bad Andy. Cincy can't get to the promised land when Andy Dalton throws three interceptions in a game.